INTERNATIONAL SERVICE

INSPIRE HER - JOINT COMMUNITY SERVICE & INTERNATIONAL SERVICE PROJECT

RI Area of Focus: Community & Economic Development, Disease Prevention & Treatment

International Observance: International Women's Day

Location: Bartica, Essequibo River.

Dates Executed: 8th March 2025

Collaboration: Blossom Inc.

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News: Newsroom, Village Voice

This initiative was organised to uplift single mothers of the local and migrant community by providing them with essential support through capacity-building training sessions and the donation of care packages containing vital necessities.

In collaboration with Blossom Inc., facilitated interactive training sessions were designed to empower participants in three critical areas: sexual and reproductive health, financial literacy, and life skills. These sessions provided valuable knowledge and practical tools to help individuals make informed decisions about their well-being, effectively manage their finances, and develop essential skills to navigate everyday challenges. Equipping participants with these resources, aimed to foster independence, resilience, and long-term personal growth.

MOOD

RI Area of Focus or RI Observance: Disease Prevention and Treatment

Location: National Park

Date Executed: December 2024

Collaboration: Rotary Georgetown Central

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News: Village Voice

Project MOOD aimed to promote mental health awareness and enhance access to vital support services. Phase 1 involved a dynamic mental health dance class, led by Zumba Instructor Otesa Richmond of ‘Dance with Tes,’ on 1st December 2024. Held at the Rotary Georgetown Central Wellness Space in the National Park, this interactive session blended physical movement and emotional expression, illustrating the powerful link between dance and mental wellness. Participants learned how to use dance as a tool for enhancing their mental health while enjoying the communal experience of movement and fun.

In line with our vision to normalise conversations around mental health, the cornerstone of Project MOOD is the installation of The MOOD Board on 8th December 2024. The MOOD Board serves as an accessible resource, providing the community with critical mental health services information, including medical, social, and recreational support available locally. The board will be regularly updated with inspirational notes, wellness tips, hotline numbers, and essential information to encourage ongoing conversations about mental health and challenge the stigma that surrounds it.

The project reflects our commitment to blending physical wellness with sustainable mental health advocacy. Through safe spaces, engaging activities, and consistent access to resources, we hope to inspire individuals to prioritise their mental well-being and offer support to those around them.

PEDAL FOR A CAUSE

A project organised by Prospective Members to observe World Diabetes Day 2024

RI Area of Focus or RI Observance: Disease Prevention & Treatment | World Diabetes Day

Location: National Park

Date Executed: Sunday, November 17, 2024.

Collaboration: RidealongGY, Starbucks Guyana, D&D Pharmacy, The Guyana Diabetic Association, A1 Solutions, Jaye O'Connell, The Guyana public service co-operative Credit Union Limited, Stride592.

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The initiative aimed at raising awareness about diabetes through physical activity and health education, was planned and implemented by prospective members as part of the membership evaluation process.

Event Highlights:

The event began at 6:00 AM at the National Park, Georgetown, and featured three main activities:

A bike ride, which followed a route along Vlissengen Road and Carifesta Avenue, returning to the National Park. Participants brought their own bicycles or registered early for bike access.
A fitness walk, which catered to participants who preferred walking, conducted within the National Park itself.
On-site health services:
- Blood sugar testing
- Blood pressure screening
- Informative diabetes awareness sessions

This project not only promoted health and wellness but also served as a platform for the prospective members to demonstrate their organizational and leadership skills. Their ability to coordinate logistics, engage stakeholders, and ensure smooth execution was commendable and instrumental in making the event a success.

We are grateful to the generous sponsors and collaborators for their contributions towards the success of this project. Special thanks to Photographer Carlwyn Collins for capturing the highlights of the day with stunning photographs.

Read Every Day & Discover (READ) - 10th Edition: Pages of Potential

RI Area of Focus or RI Observance: Basic Education & Literacy | International Literacy Day

Location: Queen's College Auditorium

Date Executed: 8th Sep 2024

Collaboration: Rotary Georgetown Central, Interact Queen's College, Interact The Bishop's High School

View on Socials: Facebook, Instagram, News

View in the News: Guyana Chronicle, News Room, Village Voice

RCGC successfully executed the 10th edition of its flagship literacy initiative, the R.E.A.D. (Read Every Day and Discover) project, titled “Pages of Potential" in collaboration with Rotary Georgetown Central and the Interact Clubs of Queen's College and The Bishops High School.

The event focused on promoting literacy and inclusivity for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Interactive literacy sessions were guided by teaching experts including Anjalena Beshpatty, Founder and Director of Sameir! Uniquely Me, Marcia Smith, Headteacher and Founder of The Gifted Hands Learning Centre, and Yolanda Williams, Headmistress of the David Rose Special School. These experts, along with their assisting teachers, provided a unique experience tailored to meet the children’s learning needs. The project also included the donation of sensory toys, educational materials, and learning tools for eighty-five (85) children, aimed at enhancing their literacy skills while supporting their caregivers.